Tyus Changes Mind, Decides To Stay

After expressing the desire to transfer almost two weeks ago, Tyus has decided to remain with the team, as confirmed by a University of Florida spokesman.

"The University of Florida is where I want to be," Tyus said in a statement Tuesday. "I truly feel this is the best place for me to continue to grow and improve and I look forward to this upcoming season."

Tyus, who averaged 12.5 points and a team-high 6.2 rebounds per game, was to be the third transfer of the 2008-09 season and possibly the fifth player to leave. Guard Nick Calathes is mulling over the NBA, and 2009 signee DeShawn Painter has been released from his letter-of-intent. Guard Jai Lucas transferred to Texas in November and forward Allan Chaney left the team in early April.

"It's great to know that his heart is here at the University of Florida," Donovan said in the statement. "I know he will work hard, and I look forward to helping him continue to grow and develop as a person and as a player."

Keeping Tyus would strengthen next year's team alongside incoming American Heritage freshman Kenny Boynton, Georgetown transfer Vernon Macklin and a collection of young talent. Tyus, a 6-foot-8, 220-pound power forward with the Gators, initially wanted to transfer to become a small forward and, thus, more NBA viable.

Tyus' quickness and skill around the basket are tailored for the power forward spot, but he was forced to be a center last year for a depleted team.